Why Heavy Raindrops Don't Crush Tiny Mosquitoes

ourtesy Tim Nowack, Andrew Dickerson and David Hu/Georgia Tech
New research published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how mosquitoes are able to survive heavy rainfall, even though a single water droplet can weigh up to 50 times as much as the tiny insect.

Biologists from the Georgia Institute of Technology began the experiment by pelting mosquitoes with raindrops in an enclosed mesh cage. They found that the bug's small size actually allows it to ride the raindrop for a split second before its wings pull it out of the drop to safety.

Additionally, the mosquito's strong exoskeleton protects it from the impact of a falling raindrop, which is comparable to a human being hit by a bus.

The only danger is if the mosquito is flying too close to the ground. Then, the little insect wouldn't have enough time to peel away from the drop before smashing to the floor.

Of course, while an excellent survival mechanism for mosquitoes, this is less exciting news for city folks hoping to seek respite from the vicious Asian tiger mosquito